Active learning invites students to move beyond simply receiving information and instead engage with what they are learning. Through discussion, writing, problem solving, reflection, and application, students have opportunities to process course content and make meaningful connections. However, there is good news: active learning does not require redesigning your entire course. Small,… Continue reading…
Providing feedback is one of the most important parts of teaching, but also one of the most difficult parts of what we do. Splitting the difference between completely critical feedback and “great job, keep it up!” is a skill that even experienced practitioners struggle with. WISE feedback is an evidence-based framework that can help… Continue reading…
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) This week, we continue exploring the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, developed by CAST, which helps us design learning environments that give every student the opportunity to succeed. The CAST UDL Guidelines can be applied in any discipline or setting to ensure that all learners are able to access… Continue reading…
Fostering Expert Learners through UDL The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, developed by CAST, encourages instructors to create flexible learning environments that meet the needs of all students. UDL aims to help students become expert learners: individuals who are purposeful, motivated, resourceful, and strategic. Below are three ways to promote expert learning in… Continue reading…
Building Community in Class Teaching tips for the beginning of the semster: Intentional work to connect with your students is a time and effort investment, but one that will create a better learning space for both you and your students. Elliott, D., Gamino, M., & Jenkins, J. J. (2016). Creating community… Continue reading…
CREATIVE ASSESSMENTS Have you been using papers, tests, and discussion forums for assessment and you’re seeking new ideas? Are you looking for new ways to engage your students with content, but not sure where to start? Our students may have the answer! This week the UTLC spoke with students about… Continue reading…
Student Voice and Midterm Feedback Drawing from the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Plus 1 approach—making small, manageable changes to enhance learning—consider how you can incrementally integrate student voice into your courses to foster continuous improvement. One effective method is engaging students at the midterm. This not only gives you valuable insights but also signals… Continue reading…
Women’s History Month March is Women’s History Month! Try incorporating some of these teaching tips to create a dynamic and universal learning environment that celebrates the rich history of women and highlights the often-overlooked stories of women’s pivotal roles in shaping society. It also fosters a more full educational narrative and… Continue reading…
Teaching and Jewish Holidays The Jewish High Holiday season begins with Rosh Hashanah followed by Sukkot and Simchat Torah. These teaching tips provide resources to help you support students during these times and other Jewish holidays. Additional resources for further reading are also provided. Jewish Holidays Q & A. You may have questions about Jewish… Continue reading…
Implicit Bias Implicit bias is the unconscious bias that forms the assumptions that we make about students based on social identity; however, in education we can also form biases about our students based on past academic performance, perceived agreeableness, previous relationships, and even the stakes of the assignment or assessment… Continue reading…
